Crispy golden tofu bites coated in a sticky, sweet-savory sesame sauce, tossed with scallions and toasted seeds for the perfect takeout-style vegan bowl.
Author:Mari
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:2 servings 1x
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Asian-Inspired
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
1 block (14 oz) extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1–2 tbsp neutral oil for frying
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Steamed rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
Press tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes.
In a bowl, toss tofu cubes with cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
Heat neutral oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Fry tofu for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha if using.
Pour the sauce into a pan over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Return tofu to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce thoroughly.
Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
For extra crispiness, air-fry or bake the tofu instead of pan-frying.
Adjust sweetness and heat in the sauce to your taste preference.
Great with stir-fried veggies or inside lettuce wraps.